THIS week’s New Music Radar features some of the best new artists in the country alongside more established names. Don’t miss out on tracks by Wet Leg, Sam Fender, Alex Amor, VanIves and more.
Wet Leg ‘Wet Dream’
Following the viral success of ‘Chaise Longue’, Wet Leg are back and they’ve done it all over again. New single ‘Wet Dream’ has the same tongue-in-cheek lyrics as their last single and brings out their punk leanings over driving, quick-tempoed percussed and jangly guitars. Another triumph, it’s sure to amplify the hype even further.
Sam Fender ‘Spit Of You’
With his new album ‘Seventeen Going Under’ out next week on 8th October, Sam Fender has shared a stirring new cut ‘Spit Of You’. Described by Fender as a “song about boys and their dads” it’s a sweet reflection on masculinity and his own relationship with his father.
Alex Amor ‘mutual’
Alex Amor has shared a new single ‘mutual’, co-written and produced with Simon Byrt (Babeheaven) and Karma Kid (Bakar, Shygirl). It joins previous track ‘dare you’ to complete her double single project which she has entitled ‘Summer is Sweet with You’. A song about risk, there’s a hopeful, carefree feel to it – her textured alt-pop template imbued with a sunny optimism.
VanIves ‘Old Names’
Said to be the first release of many this Autumn, ‘Old Names’ is another shape-shifting slice of alt-pop from VanIves that oscillates between dreamy, expressive sequences and anthemic choruses. More upbeat than previous single ‘Nothing’, it’s carried by incredibly dynamic and ambitious soundscapes that soothe and swell in all the right places.
Giving us insight into the song, they say “‘Old Names’ is about closing the doors to a long term and creative relationship; trying your hardest to be sincere and kind when you’re being treated like shit.”
Fatherson ‘End Of The World’
End Of The World’ marks the Ayrshire trio’s first piece of new music in three years and it takes them into unforeseen territory, all while retaining the storytelling flair of their earlier material. Those expecting to hear big distorted guitars will have to look elsewhere; instead they place all their focus on producing a sunny, carefree sound with timeless pop choruses and singalong lyrics at the heart of it all. Described by the band as progression rather than reinvention, it’s a feel-good return from the outfit that showcases their innate skills for songwriting.
Stina Marie Claire ‘A Souvenir Of A Terrible Year’
When Honeyblood’s fourth album was forced on the back burner during lockdown, Stina Tweeddale remained a hugely creative force, turning her attention to a new solo project that would go on to reveal an entirely new side to her talents. Created alongside her dedicated fanbase, who are behind almost every decision of the release; from which tracks have made the cut to the EP title and accompanying artwork, this new EP is a world away from the grungy scuzz and polished nature of previous Honeyblood albums. Instead, she opts for an intimate bedroom-pop sound – one that sees her return to her DIY roots with raw, emotionally engaged lyrics at the heart of it.
PLASMAS ‘Is It Everything You Want?”
Dundee indie five-piece PLASMAS released their second track of 2021 this week, the much-anticipated ‘Is It Everything You Want?’. Loved for their self-aware, dreamy indie sound and expertly crafted songs, PLASMAS’ latest release is no different. Drawing heavy influence from the more expressive side of indie-pop, such as The Cure and Tame Impala, this band are able to take pure, singalong pop melodies to a more interesting realm with intricate guitar work and dreamy synths.
Joell ‘No One’
Edinburgh’s Joell has made an invigorated return with the release of ‘No One’, his first piece of new music in over a year. Known for his vivid lyricism and booming soundscapes, the track sees the artist shift things up a gear with his unique, auto-tuned vocals delivered over a bass-heavy instrumental with big trap beats. It’s an instant banger that’s made for the club.
Courtney Barnett ‘Write a List of Things to Look Forward To’
Courtney Barnett’s new single is a contemplative indie-rock gem about cherishing friendships through the darkness. With her bleakly self-aware lyrics and twinkly melodies, it’s the latest cut to arrive from her new album ‘Things Take Time, Take Time’ which is released on 12th November.
Listen to our weekly playlist below.
